Rt Hon Chris Hipkins
Prime Minister
Prime
Minister Chris Hipkins has concluded his visit to Brisbane
today, after participating in an Australian citizenship
ceremony marking a new direct pathway to citizenship for New
Zealanders living in Australia.
“I was pleased to
welcome the announcement over the weekend of a new direct
pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealand
citizens,” Chris Hipkins said.
“Successive New
Zealand Prime Ministers have advocated for this change for
two decades. It’s pleasing that the close relationship
between leaders of two like-minded governments was
instrumental in reaching this outcome.
“This will
ensure the rights of New Zealanders who choose to live and
work in Australia long-term. It brings our two nations
closer together.
“I acknowledge Prime Minister
Albanese has been instrumental in prioritising these
improvements.
“In addition to the announcement of
rights of New Zealanders in Australia, my visit this weekend
underlines the strength and breadth of bonds between
Australia and New Zealand, which enhance resilience and
opportunities for both countries.
“Prime Minister
Albanese and I visited a cemetery in Brisbane to attend the
unveiling of plaques for the previously unmarked graves of
soldiers who served during the two World Wars. It was an
incredibly moving experience.
“We also had a useful
discussion about some of the regional security and economic
interests which New Zealand and Australia share. Our
conversation reaffirmed New Zealand and Australia are the
closest of partners and our commitment to working together
to advance collective well-being and security, and that of
the wider region.”
“Together with the Australian
Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Minister of Agriculture Murray
Watt, Trade and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor and I
hosted a business reception which marked the 40th
anniversary of Closer Economic Relations and supported trade
links between firms in both countries.
“CER and the
integration of our economies through the Single Economic
Market agenda remain crucial to the success of both
countries.
“I also had a good discussion with
Australia’s Minister for Emergency Management and
Queensland counterparts about how Australia and New Zealand
support each other to respond to natural disasters, and how
we can learn from each other to build our resilience in
future. Building those links will be increasingly
important.”
Read More: Visit Celebrates Close Bonds Between New Zealand And Australia